Surprising Mexican delicacies...finally.

It makes sense that the fanciful and flavorful creations coming out of Alex Stupak's kitchen look like delicate, edible Mexican sculptures. With a pedigree as pastry chef at WD~50 and Alinea one would expect magic from Chef Stupak. And what he delivers is nothing short of surprising wonders...much needed wonders.

As a person who has never been excited by Mexican food, but having heard about the spectacular food coming out of Mexico City and Puebla, I often thought that New York was in need of some elevated Mexican cuisine. Enough of these generic taco/chip shops, these big box/over-sized margarita monoliths. There was a void in the market, and Alex Stupak saw that need and has now filled it.

Everything you order in the comfortable yet cool dinning room is brilliantly askew. Any expectations you have will be turned slightly to the slide and you'll be given some welcome surprises. Whether it's the Rooster’s Claw cocktail of Reposado tequila, mango and surprisingly spicy Habañero - woo, what a kick! The pillow like, lightly fried Gordita atop sweet and savory smoked plantains and chorizo; upon cutting into the flying saucer shaped Gordita one will be pleasantly surprised by the oozing egg yolk that perfectly merges the flavors and textures. The hearty and earthy Hen-of-the-Woods Mushrooms with Black Bean Vermicelli was savory and refreshing all at once. The sweet and perfectly cooked Maine Diver Scallops surrounded by small and savory Surryano Ham and delicate Chilaquiles (corn tortillas cut into small squares and lightly fried to a crisp).

We ended the evening with several desserts but the Arroz Con Leche; a cross between fried rice crispy treats and rice pudding covered in sweet cream cheese and lovely, light, sweet Guava was surprisingly amazing.

Finishing the evening and settling back satiated by this fine Mexican cuisine I was surprised. Surprised that it had taken until February of this year for a place like this exist in NYC. Surprised that I found a new favorite spot with Alex Stupak. And surprised that I could find Mexican food so plate-lickingly delicious.

Empellon Cocina
105 First Ave. (bet. 6th & 7th Sts.)